The Development of Dynamic Performance Standards for Civil Rotorcraft Seats

Civil aircraft seats have traditionally been designed to comply with static strength requirements. Dynamic performance standards which address both seat strength and the occupant impact protection characteristics of the seat have recently been defined for aircraft seats. The FAA has funded a program to research U.S. rotorcraft accidents. Accident scenarios were developed from this research. Further analysis of the results of those data led to the formulation of new dynamic performance standards for rotorcraft seats and occupant restraint. The FAA has proposed that those newly developed seat dynamic performance criteria be incorporated into Parts 27 and 29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. The development of chose standards is reviewed.